Find and Book Cheap Flights to China from Sweden easily and quickly

Spring offers pleasant weather and is perfect for sightseeing. Flight prices are often lower than during the peak season in summer.

Summer is the peak season for travel, meaning higher prices for flights and accommodation. Expect hot and humid weather, especially in the south.

Autumn is considered the best time to travel to China. The weather is dry and cool, and flight prices can be cheaper than during the summer.

Winter is the low season, which often yields the cheapest flight tickets to China. It is cold, but perfect for visiting ice festivals and ski resorts.

Swedish citizens need a visa for most trips to China, including tourism. Apply well in advance, at least one month before departure. Always check the latest regulations, especially for Hong Kong and Macau, which have their own entry requirements. Some cities offer 72- or 144-hour visa-free transit if you are traveling onward to a third country, which can be useful for short stops.

China's cities have excellent subway systems that are cheap and efficient, especially in Beijing and Shanghai. Trains are the best way to travel between cities; high-speed trains are fast and comfortable, although they must be booked in advance. For shorter distances, taxis and ride-sharing services like Didi (China's equivalent of Uber) are common. Note that you often need a Chinese app to book a taxi, and English is rarely spoken by drivers outside the major tourist areas. Having the destination's name written in Chinese is crucial to avoid misunderstandings.

Accommodation in China varies greatly. In major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, you can find everything from luxury hotels to budget hostels. It is important to know that not all hotels in China are authorized to host foreign guests, especially smaller, local hotels. Book through international platforms and double-check reviews. For a more local experience, consider renting an apartment via an app, but make sure the host registers your stay with the local police within 24 hours, which is a legal requirement for foreigners. Prices are generally lower than in Sweden, but the standard can vary. Choose accommodation near a subway station for easy access to the city.

China is generally a very safe country, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas. The biggest difference from Sweden is the payment method: China is almost entirely cashless. Mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate. It can be difficult to use Swedish credit cards directly, so prepare to download and link your card to one of these apps (some now have international options). Regarding customs, show respect for the elderly and avoid losing face (humiliating someone publicly). Try to learn a few simple phrases in Mandarin; it is greatly appreciated. Don't forget that a VPN service is necessary to access many Western websites and social media.

China's cuisine is incredibly varied; there is not just one 'Chinese food'. Each region has its specialty, from Sichuan's strong flavors to Canton's mild dishes. Dare to try street food, but choose places with high turnover. In Sweden, we are used to eating with cutlery, but in China, chopsticks are used. Ordering several dishes to share is the norm. Only drink bottled water. Tea is the most common beverage, and it is polite to pour into others' cups before filling your own. Try local noodle dishes and dumplings – they are often cheap and incredibly tasty.

China is vast, and the climate varies greatly. Beijing has cold winters and hot summers, while Southern China (like Guangzhou) is subtropical. Pack layers. Bring comfortable shoes, as you will be walking a lot. Don't forget adapters for electrical outlets (Type A, C, and I are used, so a universal adapter is best). A small hand sanitizer is good to have. Above all, pack a small medical kit with common medications, as it can be difficult to find equivalent products in China. A portable charger is also necessary as you will rely heavily on your mobile for payment and maps.

China is enormous. Don't try to see everything in a week. Choose a region, such as the East Coast (Beijing, Shanghai) or Southern China (Hong Kong, Guangzhou). High-speed trains make it possible to travel quickly, but they are expensive. To get the most out of your trip, focus on experiencing a few places deeply rather than rushing between many. Book domestic flights in advance to save time and money. A good tip is to spend at least three full days in each major city to see the main attractions and get a feel for city life. Use TICKETS.SE to find the best flight prices between cities.

To truly experience China, try to avoid the most obvious tourist traps. Visit local markets early in the morning, eat at small restaurants without English menus (use a translation app!), and take time to observe daily life in parks. Chinese parks are fantastic places where people practice Tai Chi, dance, and play games. Participating in a simple activity can give you a unique insight into the culture. A tip from TICKETS.SE: visit a "hutong" (traditional alley) in Beijing early in the morning to see locals playing cards and eating breakfast. It is an unforgettable experience that offers fantastic photo opportunities.